Start in St. Peter's Square, where the architectural brilliance of Bernini unfolds. Then enter St. Peter's Basilica, a realm adorned with golden ceilings, vibrant marbles, and masterpieces like Michelangelo's Pietà. Delve into the Papal grottoes underground, touching ancient walls and visiting St. Peter's tomb for a profound historical encounter. The grand crescendo awaits as you ascend to the dome's summit, offering both close encounters with intricate mosaics and panoramic views of Rome's iconic landmarks. From this lofty perch at 136 meters, immerse yourself in breathtaking vistas, spotting the Colosseum, Pantheon, and beyond. PLEASE NOTE: In the event that the grottoes or certain areas of St. Peter’s Basilica are closed, your guide will adapt the itinerary by highlighting alternative sites and artworks within the basilica. The overall duration and quality of the tour will remain unchanged. The Dome climb is by stairs only; the elevator is not included in this tour.

St. Peter's Basilica, located within Vatican City, is a symbol of religious devotion and architectural grandeur. A guided tour of this iconic basilica provides an immersive encounter with its historical, artistic, and spiritual dimensions. Marvel at the Renaissance and Baroque architecture of this monumental church, including the awe-inspiring dome designed by Michelangelo. Explore a treasure trove of masterpieces by renowned artists such as Michelangelo's "Pieta" and Bernini's "Baldacchino." Discover the religious importance of St. Peter's Basilica as the burial site of St. Peter and a hub for major papal ceremonies. Descend into the Vatican Grottoes to pay homage to the tombs of popes and saints, including the traditional resting place of St. Peter. Ascend to the top of the dome for panoramic vistas of Vatican City and Rome, offering a unique perspective on the Eternal City.

Discover St. Piter's Basilica ( one of the finest cathedrals) on a guided tour small group with a professional art historian. Enjoy a rare bird's- eye view over Rome with this tour that's includes a climb to the top of it's dome.

Make your visit to Vatican City unforgettable with an expertly guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica. With priority access, skip the long lines and step straight into one of the world’s most iconic churches. Discover the rich history and artistic wonders of this sacred space as your guide brings its masterpieces to life—from Michelangelo’s breathtaking dome and Pietà to Bernini’s magnificent bronze Baldachin. Upgrade your experience by adding a guided visit to Castel Sant’Angelo, one of Rome’s most fascinating historic landmarks. This enhanced option combines your reserved-entry tour of St. Peter’s Basilica with pre-booked access to Castel Sant’Angelo, allowing you to explore two iconic sites in one seamless, time-efficient experience.

Join our knowledgeable guides who will breathe life into the sites with historical context, engaging stories, and fascinating details. Your journey begins at the meeting point, where your guide provides a brief overview of Vatican City and St. Peter's Basilica. Explore the exterior of the Basilica, learning about its Renaissance design and symbolic significance in the Catholic Church. Step through the massive bronze doors into the awe-inspiring Nave, where colossal statues, intricate mosaics, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini's breathtaking Baldachin await. Encounter Michelangelo's renowned sculpture, the Pieta, as your guide shares insights into the artist's life and the emotional depth of this masterpiece. With limited group sizes, expect a personalized and interactive tour that promises to be unforgettable.

Combine a thorough guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica with a climb to the top of the dome (by stairs) for the best panoramic view of Rome. Discover marvels of art and architecture created by world-famous masters of the Renaissance with a private art historian. PLEASE NOTE: In the event that the grottoes or certain areas of St. Peter’s Basilica are closed, your guide will adapt the itinerary by highlighting alternative sites and artworks within the basilica. As a result, the overall duration and quality of the tour will remain unchanged. The Dome climb is by stairs only; the elevator is not included in this tour.